Our journey in Epiphany in 2025 ends with the celebration of the Transfiguration, Christ on the mountain and Moses at Sinai. Each account serves as a reminder that we are called to unity not uniformity in God.
Our invitation into worship was the invitation to remember the light which leads us, and the power which allows us to carry our cross and do the hard work of our faith – Jesus. Our Hebrew scripture from Exodus was the account of Moses coming down from Mount Sinai when his countenance shines because he was in God’s presence and carries God’s commands forward to the Israelites. The Psalmist’s refrain recounts the reminder that God is king and because that is the case, we should be in awe of God. The letter to the Corinthians was Paul’s reminder of Moses shining face and a reminder that God’s mercy is the thing that allows us to not lose heart. Our Gospel from Luke was the Transfiguration story and how faith can move mountains if we have faith. The stories of the Transfiguration offer a reminder of our commission – the grace by which we stand. And our calling to be united not uniform as followers of Christ – each one using and sharing the gifts they have been given to bring God’s presence and connection to God in community.
Things to consider and ponder; just because the Holy Spirit doesn’t act like we want, doesn’t mean the Holy Spirit isn’t doing the Holy Spirit’s work. The other in our midst isn’t just “other” but more importantly is a child of God worthy of God’s redemption. Being sure of our commission does not mean we are always right, simply that we are led to greater things for God.
God’s mercy doesn’t make us flawless and doesn’t preclude our work and toil for God. God’s mercy actively invites us to live in the challenging places of community. Who is the one, in the coming week, who will bring you closer to the person you are called to be by God? How will you hear the Holy Spirit, not constrained by your desires, but open to the mysterious ways of God? I invite your likes and comments,
Les+
Readings: Exodus 34:29-35; Psalm 99; 2 Corinthians 3:12-4:2: Luke 9:28-43a
https://audiomack.com/fatherles-2/song/last-sunday-after-epiphany-sermon-1
